By Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, South Carolina, Chair of the National Lt. Governors Association, 2025-2026
South Carolina’s future depends on how well we prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s economy. That preparation begins in our classrooms, and few areas are more critical to our long-term success than Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Across our state, we are making intentional investments to ensure students graduate not only with diplomas, but with real skills, real experience, and real pathways to college and careers.
STEM for the real world
South Carolina is fortunate to offer a wide range of STEM and STEAM opportunities for students at every level. Like many states, we support magnet schools and charter schools that focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. We are also home to one of the most respected specialized public schools in the nation, the Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, which provides advanced, hands-on learning opportunities for some of our most motivated students.
At the state level, the South Carolina Department of Education has established robust STEM career-focused courses aligned with engineering, engineering technology, and advanced manufacturing. Through this cluster, high school students can take courses including:
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Introduction to Engineering Design
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Digital Electronics
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Aerospace Engineering
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Biotechnical Engineering
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Computer-Integrated Manufacturing
These are not abstract academic exercises. They are practical, industry-aligned courses that prepare students for real careers in fields that are growing right here in South Carolina.
Understanding the basics is essential for a good STEM foundation
We have also taken an important step to ensure all students have a baseline understanding of technology. South Carolina now requires every public school student to take and pass a computer science course to graduate. To support this commitment, the General Assembly appropriates $3 million annually to help teachers and students learn computer science from kindergarten through 12th grade. That investment reflects our belief that digital literacy is no longer optional, it’s foundational.
Another key partner in our STEM ecosystem is the South Carolina Coalition for Mathematics and Science. Supported by $2 million in annual state funding and generous corporate partners such as BMW Manufacturing, Duke Energy, DuPont, and Michelin North America, the Coalition works at the intersection of education and workforce development.
Its efforts include:
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Awarding mini grants to educators for STEM projects
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Providing professional development for teachers statewide
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Celebrating students and teachers during STEM Education Month each spring (March 14-April 15) through events such as:
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Pi Day and World Quantum Day
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Duke Energy Science Nights
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Recognizing the STEM educator of the year
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STEM Day at the State House, where student projects are showcased for policymakers and the public
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Furthering STEM awareness and offering scholarships nationally through NLGA
My work in South Carolina is strengthened by my role on the national stage. As Chair of the National Lieutenant Governors Association for 2025–2026, I have the opportunity to elevate STEM education while bringing resources and visibility back to our state.
One of the most impactful tools we have is the NLGA Lt. Governors’ STEM Scholarship Program, which is sponsored by ACT, and provides funding directly to K-12 schools for innovative STEM projects.
As South Carolina Lt. Governor, I am proud to encourage our schools to apply for this scholarship and even prouder to celebrate their success. A standout example is PALM Charter High School, the nation’s only career and technical high school focused on motorsports and racing. Their 2025 scholarship award supports hands-on STEM education aligned with South Carolina’s leadership in automotive manufacturing and motorsports —industries that are vital to our economy.
In addition, I chair the bipartisan NLGA Aerospace Committee in its inaugural year. This work connects STEM education to aerospace and defense policy, helping ensure states like South Carolina — already a major aerospace hub — are developing the talent pipeline needed to remain competitive.
STEM for college and career readiness
I believe deeply that STEM education is about more than preparing students for college. It is about preparing them for life. Early, hands-on exposure through robotics, engineering projects, computer science, and innovative classroom learning sparks curiosity and builds confidence. It helps students see a future for themselves in high-demand, good-paying careers in technology, manufacturing, automotive, motorsports, aerospace, and other emerging industries.
Just as important, STEM creates multiple pathways to success. A four-year degree is not the only route to a rewarding career. Technical colleges, apprenticeships, certifications, and industry credentials offer flexible, affordable options that lead directly to strong jobs and economic mobility, which is why I’m proud to learn and now share that 100% of South Carolina’s counties are certified ACT Work Ready Communities.
The NLGA STEM Scholarship Program plays a critical role in making these opportunities more accessible by providing K-12 schools with resources for:
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Innovative classroom projects
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STEM equipment
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Curriculum development
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Community problem-solving initiatives
Students gain practical skills early, discover their interests, and graduate with a clearer sense of purpose and direction.
The economic case for STEM investment is clear. According to the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, computer and mathematical occupations in our state are projected to grow by 24 percent by 2032, adding roughly 12,000 jobs. Annual job openings are expected to exceed 4,600, with more than 1,200 driven by new demand.′ These are opportunities we cannot afford to leave unfilled.
The broader picture
When we invest in STEM education as a nation, we invest in our workforce, our economy, and our competitiveness on the global stage. The NLGA Lt. Governors’ STEM Scholarship program inspires that investment within our education system, and we encourage schools across the country to apply for this scholarship. Applications are being accepted through March 6, 2026.
By aligning education with industry needs and expanding access to hands-on learning, we are ensuring that the next generation is ready, not just to graduate, but to lead.
